Who is Sean Penn’s Girlfriend Valeria Nicov? Inside the relationship turning heads in Hollywood
Sean Penn and Valeria Nicov attend the 17th Film Festival Lumiere in 2025. Image Credit : Stephane Cardinale/Corbis via Getty
Hollywood actor and filmmaker Sean Penn is continuing to make headlines for his personal life as he was recently spotted enjoying a casual outing with his girlfriend, Valeria Nicov, in Santa Monica, California. The public appearance further confirms that the couple’s relationship, first rumored in 2024, remains firmly intact.
The pair were photographed strolling side by side during a relaxed shopping trip, offering a rare glimpse into their low-key dynamic away from red carpets and award ceremonies.
Coordinated Style Sparks Attention
Penn, 65, and Nicov, 30, appeared noticeably coordinated, opting for complementary black-and-white outfits. The actor wore a crisp white button-up shirt layered under a structured blazer, paired with dark trousers and white sneakers. Nicov, a professional model, chose a sleek all-black ensemble featuring a turtleneck, peacoat, tailored pants, and matching sneakers.
As they walked hand in hand, Nicov appeared engaged in conversation while Penn was seen smoking, a moment that quickly circulated across celebrity news platforms.
From First Sightings to Red Carpet Debut
Penn and Nicov were first linked in September 2024, when they were photographed together in Madrid. The sightings fueled speculation, which intensified a month later when the two were spotted traveling together through Los Angeles International Airport.
Their relationship became official in the public eye in November 2024, when they made their red carpet debut at the Marrakech International Film Festival, where Penn was honored with a career achievement award. Since then, they have made select public appearances, including the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, though they largely keep their relationship private.
Golden Globes Appearance, Solo but Spotlighted
While Nicov did not accompany Penn to the 2026 Golden Globe Awards, the actor still made headlines at the ceremony. Penn was nominated for Best Supporting Actor for his role in One Battle After Another, directed by Paul Thomas Anderson.
The night drew additional attention when Penn was photographed smoking indoors while seated alongside Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Hudson, an image that quickly went viral and sparked discussion online.
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Who Is Valeria Nicov?
Valeria Nicov is a model who has gradually gained recognition beyond fashion circles due to her relationship with the Oscar-winning actor. While she maintains a relatively private public profile, her polished appearances alongside Penn at international film festivals have drawn growing interest from fans and media alike.
Despite the nearly 35-year age difference, the couple has appeared comfortable and confident together, with insiders describing the relationship as “quiet but solid.”
Sean Penn’s Relationship History
Penn has a long and highly public romantic history. He was previously married to Madonna, Robin Wright, and Leila George, and has been linked in the past to stars such as Charlize Theron, Scarlett Johansson, and Olga Korotyayeva.
His relationship with Nicov marks a more reserved chapter compared to his earlier, highly publicized romances.
A Relationship That Continues to Draw Curiosity
As Penn balances award-season recognition with a steady personal life, public fascination around his relationship with Nicov continues to grow. Each appearance, whether on the streets of Los Angeles or at an international film festival, adds to the intrigue surrounding one of Hollywood’s most talked-about age-gap romances.
For now, the couple appears content keeping things understated, letting their occasional outings speak for themselves.
FAQ
Who is Sean Penn’s girlfriend in 2026?
Sean Penn is currently dating model Valeria Nicov, whom he has been linked to since September 2024.
How old is Valeria Nicov?
Valeria Nicov is 30 years old, while Sean Penn is 65, making their relationship one with a notable age difference.
When did Sean Penn and Valeria Nicov start dating?
The couple was first spotted together in September 2024, with their red carpet debut following in November 2024.
Did Valeria Nicov attend the 2026 Golden Globes with Sean Penn?
No, Nicov did not accompany Penn to the 2026 Golden Globe Awards, where he was nominated for Best Supporting Actor.
What does Valeria Nicov do for a living?
Valeria Nicov is a professional model, though she keeps a relatively low public profile.
Was Sean Penn married before Valeria Nicov?
Yes. Sean Penn has been married three times, to Madonna, Robin Wright, and Leila George.
Are Sean Penn and Valeria Nicov still together?
Yes. Recent sightings in January 2026 confirm that the couple is still together.